Jones: "I can't wait to get started!"

19 January 2017

The Reds' latest recruit Gethin Jones spoke exclusively to barnsleyfc.co.uk after completing his first day at Oakwell today...

Signed until the end of the 2016/17 season, the 21-year-old Everton loanee joined his new teammates on the Oakwell training pitch today and spoke of his delight at getting the move done following a lot of speculation.

He explained: "I am delighted to come here, it's such a big Club that got promoted last year and pushing now for the Play-Offs this year. I was told last week of the interest, but I only found out about the actual move on Tuesday. In fact I think it had spread all over social media before it was even confirmed! I'm really happy and I can't wait to get started."

Gethin is a defender by trade but has played in numerous positions so far in his short career, but he is clear that he's most comfortable at right-back and feels he has the necessary qualities to thrive in that position.

"I'm a right back, but I like to get forward. I like to get into the box, get a few assists. I like one versus one defending too, I think I'm pretty strong in that department. I think I'm a leader. I've captained Wales from Under 16 level right through to the Under 21s.

"I was even away with the full team a year and a half ago when they were preparing for the Euro's. That has all been brilliant for me in terms of experience."

Having travelled up from Everton this morning, today was Jones' first opportunity to meet his new teammates and the Reds coaching staff, including Head Coach Paul Heckingbottom and he says he was given a good reception once at Oakwell.

"It's been really good" he said. "I know a few of the lads, and I've played against a few of them as well. I know Jake Charles from Wales obviously and Adam Davies from Everton. All the lads have been really good with me, welcomed me. I enjoyed our first session."

The Welshman has had some advice from a former Reds defender upon making the move to Oakwell. He also believes that Barnsley is the ideal fit for him in terms of the style of football the Reds produce.

He explained: "I spoke to Mason Holgate once I got the move here, and he was praising the Club highly. He's obviously come through the youth ranks at Barnsley and gone on to do very well at Everton. I think Barnsley like to play football, which is exactly what I like to do. The style of football that the Club play suits me I think, with the full-backs allowed to bomb on forward so I'm really looking forward to getting started now."